Chin J Plan Ecolo ›› 1983, Vol. 7 ›› Issue (4): 280-288.

Special Issue: 青藏高原植物生态学:群落生态学

• Research Articles • Previous Articles     Next Articles

A Preliminary Study on Caloric Values of Common Plants in Alpine Meadow

Yang Futun, He Haiju   

  • Published:1983-04-10
  • Contact: Li Yueshu

Abstract: This work has been carried out at the alpine meadow research station of Men-Yuan County, Qinghai. The samples were collected during growing seasons in 1978 and 1980. Caloric values of different plants in alpine meadow were determined by JR-2800 bomb calorimeter. The caloric values of 29 species together with that including seasonal changes of 4 species were determined. Caloric values have been compared not only between various plants of same species but also 4 species at different phenologica phases. Caloric values of alpine meadow plants were higher than average caloric of world terrestrial plants but similar to that of dry meadow plants in Norway and Mt. Washington in America. The average caloric values were 4427.5 cal/g (ash-free, ovendry weight). The seasonal change of caloric values of different plants was different. This is correlated with higher altitude cold climate, ash content, plant phenophase and nutrients. It is found that shrubs have significantly higher caloric values than herbs due to their higher lipid content.